Rabat: GCC Secretary-General Jassem Mohammed Al Budaiwi urged international efforts to protect energy security and ensure the stability of supply chains, focusing on the continuity of international maritime navigation and global food security. Al Budaiwi emphasized the importance of maritime security in preserving regional and international stability, advocating adherence to international law to secure navigation freedom in maritime routes.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Budaiwi highlighted the necessity of halting Iranian attacks on GCC territories, ports, and interests in Gulf waters. He called for measures to prevent such incidents and guarantee uninterrupted international navigation through critical maritime passages, particularly the Straits of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb. His statements were made during a virtual meeting discussing the "Supporting Food Security and Access to Fertilizers" initiative, attended by officials from Italy and Croatia.
The GCC Secretary-General noted that GCC states have activated alternative logistics corridors to protect supply chains, redirecting shipments from Gulf ports to those on the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. This strategy, supported by customs and logistical facilitations, aims to maintain the flow of supplies and fulfill global energy and fertilizer demand. Al Budaiwi condemned Iran's aggression and its impact on maritime navigation, which he described as a violation of international law and the UN Charter.
He warned that disruptions in maritime navigation could have global economic repercussions, with shortages in oil, gas, petrochemical products, and agricultural fertilizers already evident. The increase in urea prices by 30 to 40 percent poses a direct threat to global food security. Developing countries dependent on energy and food imports are particularly vulnerable, facing inflationary pressures and rising sovereign debt. Al Budaiwi urged collective action to develop practical mechanisms for price stability and logistical coordination to ensure the continuous supply of essential goods.